SIERRA LEONE MUDSLIDES: CHILD SAFETY A TOP PRIORITY

Plan International is working to protect the safety of children left vulnerable by the devastating mudslides in Freetown, Sierra Leone, that have claimed over 300 lives.

Mudslides have claimed the lives of over 300 people in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

Thousands of children have been rendered homeless in Sierra Leone by the devastating mudslides and flooding that destroyed parts of the capital city Freetown on Monday 14 August.

With over 300 people confirmed dead and the rescue operation still under way, the safety and protection of the most vulnerable survivors – especially children – must remain a top priority.

CHILDREN AT RISK

Children are among the most vulnerable when disasters occur.

“Children are among the most vulnerable when disasters occur,” says Martial Kounou, Plan International’s Interim Country Director in Sierra Leone. “Many will have become separated from their families as a result of the flooding and we must ensure that they receive assistance as quickly as possible.”

Plan International is carrying out a rapid needs assessment to support the families and children affected by the disaster, many of whom are now being housed in emergency shelters.

URGENT SUPPORT

“We are working with the government and other humanitarian agencies to provide those affected with urgent items such as food, clean clothes, hygiene kits, and bedding to help them through the days and nights to come.

“We will also be looking to ensure that the particular needs of children are catered for, and that they remain safe and protected in a time of such uncertainty, upheaval and chaos in their lives.”

For more than 80 years we’ve been taking action and standing up for every child’s right to fulfil their potential. On a daily basis, our energy is devoted to making a difference for children living in poverty.

We stand up for children’s rights and promote equality for girls. We listen to the children we work with and find the best way forward together. We trust in what we do.

Our approach mixes the practical with the entrepreneurial.

We’re open, accountable and honest. We believe it’s important to share the impact of our work with the people who support us. We are different. We are Plan International.

Plan International Ireland is a member of Dóchas and has adopted its Code of Conduct on Images and Messages.

For more than 80 years we’ve been taking action and standing up for every child’s right to fulfil their potential. On a daily basis, our energy is devoted to making a difference for children living in poverty.

We stand up for children’s rights and promote equality for girls. We listen to the children we work with and find the best way forward together. We trust in what we do.

Our approach mixes the practical with the entrepreneurial.

We’re open, accountable and honest. We believe it’s important to share the impact of our work with the people who support us. We are different. We are Plan International.

Plan International Ireland is a member of Dóchas and has adopted its Code of Conduct on Images and Messages.